Paul Di’Anno, the first lead singer of British heavy metal band Iron Maiden who helped launch the group to international prominence, died on October 21, 2024, at the age 66 at his home in Salisbury, England. His record label, Conquest Music, announced his death, though no specific cause was provided.
Di’Anno served as Iron Maiden’s frontman from 1978 to 1981, during which he recorded two pivotal albums that helped establish the band’s signature sound – their self-titled debut album “Iron Maiden” (1980) and “Killers” (1981). Di’Anno departed from the band in 1981, after which Bruce Dickinson took over as the lead vocalist. He later acknowledged that his constant partying had been excessive and unfair to the band, the fans, and himself. The current members of the band expressed their deep sadness over his passing.
The vocalist’s contributions to songs like “Running Free,” “Sanctuary,” and “Twilight Zone/Wrathchild” helped shape the band’s early direction. Iron Maiden acknowledged Di’Anno’s “pioneering presence as a frontman and vocalist” and his significant impact on setting them on their path.
After leaving Iron Maiden, Di’Anno maintained an active presence in the music industry, performing with various bands, including Battlezone and Killers, while pursuing a solo career. His first career retrospective album, “The Book of the Beast,” was released in September 2024.
In recent years, Di’Anno faced significant health challenges, including a “golf ball-sized abscess” in his leg that required knee surgery – a procedure for which his former band helped cover the costs. He also battled pneumonia while touring in Mexico, which led to additional infections and complications.
Despite these health setbacks, Di’Anno remained committed to performing, managing to play over 100 concerts since 2023, often appearing in a wheelchair. His recent communications with Iron Maiden bassist Steve Harris centered around their shared passion for West Ham United football club.
Iron Maiden shared a tribute on their social media, alongside a photo of Di’Anno with bassist Steve Harris. The band expressed deep sadness over his passing, reflecting on how much Di’Anno meant to Iron Maiden and how his presence helped set them on their path for nearly five decades. They noted that his pioneering role as a frontman and vocalist, both on stage and on their first two albums, will be fondly remembered by them and fans worldwide.
Di’Anno’s influence extended beyond Iron Maiden. Bands like Metallica, Pantera, and Sepultura cite his early recordings as formative influences on their own music.
